Issuu

ONION WORLD Voice of the Industry • OnionWorld.net • July/August 2026

Harvest Essentials

Buyers' Guide

Advertiser Index American Takii.....................23 Aqua Irrigation......................9 BASF - Nunhems..................16 Bejo.....................................19 BW Packaging......................19 Chinook Equipment...............3 Clearwater Supply...............21 Crookham..............................3 EDP.....................................15 Gearmore..............................6 Gowan Seed..........................3 Kerian..................................18 NOA......................................8 Redwood Empire...................7 Seedway................................9 Teleos..................................24 TKI.........................................7 TKI.......................................21 Top Air.................................15 Volm...................................17

Ag Robots Irrigation Sensors Vidalia Onion Committee

Table of Contents

ONION WORLD Volume 42, Number 5

july/august 2026 4 Robotic Onion Seeding & Weeding 10 Harvest Essentials

Buyers' Guide

16 Making Sense of Soil Moisture Sensors 22 Sweet Season, Bold Partnerships

Vidalia Onion Committee

PO Box 333 Roberts, Idaho 83444 Telephone: (208) 520-6461 Circulation: (503) 724-3581

OnionWorld.net Onion World Contacts Editor Denise Keller editor@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com Publisher / Advertising Manager Dave Alexander dave@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com Director of Operations Brian Feist brian@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com

EDITORIAL INFORMATION Onion World is interested in newsworthy material related to onion production and marketing. Contributions from all segments of the industry are welcome. Submit news releases, new product submissions, stories and photos via email to: editor@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com.

ADVERTISING SALES For information on rates, mechanics, deadlines, list rental, direct mail, inserts or other information, call (208) 520-6461 or email: dave@onionworld.net

SUBSCRIPTIONS U.S. $50 per year Foreign $120 per year

Subscribe online at: www.OnionWorld.net/subscribe or call (503) 724-3581. Email address changes/corrections to brian@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com or mail to: Onion World PO Box 333 Roberts, ID 83444

The Vidalia Onion Committee has entered into a strategic partnership with Certified Angus Beef. Read more about their collaboration on page 22.

On The Cover Harvest is underway at J&S Farms in Parma, Idaho. Find a full selection of Harvest Essentials in our Buyers’ Guide on pages 10-14. 2

Onion World • July/August 2026

DEPARTMENTS 7...... Calendar 8...... In the News 20.... From the NOA 22.... Advertiser Index

Onion World magazine (ISSN 0892-578X), is published eight times a year and mailed under a standard rate mailing permit at Idaho Falls, Idaho and at additional mailing offices. Produced by Columbia Media Group PO Box 333, Roberts, ID, 83444. Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, for any purpose without the express written permission of Columbia Media Group. For information on reprints call (208) 520-6461.

Paci�c Northwest Edp Electro-bagger model EB 2218 DF

This model now has the ability to do bags as well as cartons with the new touch screen controls. It also comes with pneumatic bag clamps as standard equipment.

RENTALS AVAILABLE For more information visit

chinookequipment.com or call 800-219-2245 or 208-331-1126

San Joaquin Valley

Brian Haddon Area Manager (971) 282-2884

Russ Brown Area Manager (559) 799-0799

Texas

Clegg Smith, Area Manager (956) 340-0022

Northeast / Midwest

Josh Heller, Area Manager (717) 940-5440

Imperial Valley & Yuma, AZ

Scott Richards Area Manager (928) 580-2484

Florida, Georgia & the Carolinas

Derek Levy, Sales Rep. (912) 433-4752 New Mexico

Greg Patti, Sales Rep. (575) 202-2250

(831) 679-1900 • www.gowanseed.com P.O. Box 190 • Chualar, CA 93925 | 25445 Chualar River Road • Chualar, CA 93925

OnionWorld.net

Robotic Onion Seeding & Weeding By Kevin Vander Kooi, Geoff Farintosh, Ifesinachi Ezeh and Mary Ruth McDonald, University of Guelph

abor shortages, rising production costs, limited herbicide options and increasing herbicide resistance have led growers to explore alternative approaches to weed management in onions, such as agricultural robots. Robotic and autonomous field technologies promise greater precision, reduced labor dependency and improved efficiency. Robots are being evaluated as practical tools to support sustainable crop production rather than as replacements for existing practices. The FarmDroid FD20 robotic system (Fig. 1, Fig. 3) was evaluated for onion seeding and in-row mechanical weeding in commercial fields in the Holland Marsh area of Ontario, Canada, over three growing seasons. The trials were conducted under real production conditions to determine how the technology performs on a working farm. Research focused on stand establishment, weed suppression, yield and overall operation, compared with the grower’s

standard production practices. The goal was to understand if the robot could realistically fit into commercial onion production and how it could contribute to integrated weed management. The Farm Droid FD20 seeding system ensures precise seed placement. A 3D-printed seed disc (Fig. 2) meters the exact number of seeds, and the robot places them in the soil. The FD20 geotags each seed during planting and creates a digital map that guides the in-row weeding tools, allowing the robot to know exactly where each onion plant is located. This allows accurate cultivation while minimizing the risk of crop injury. This level of precision limits the operating speed compared with conventional equipment. As a result, the first year of seeding with the robot was performed at slower speeds. This trade-off reduced field efficiency initially, but it provided the precision necessary for automated weeding and demonstrated that the robot could seed with accuracy.

Figure 1. The FarmDroid FD20 cultivates a commercial onion field.

Onion World • July/August 2026

Field Performance, Practical Results

In 2023, onions were seeded using four single rows per bed, with seeds spaced 3.4 cm apart within each row, at an operating speed of 225 meters per hour. This configuration differed from the conventional system, which used four twin rows per bed, yet the FD20 achieved comparable plant stands. The FD20 uses a seed valve system to geotag each seed. Because of the close seed spacing, operating speed was slow to provide enough time for the valve to open and close properly for each seed. While this ensured accurate placement, there was a need to adjust seed spacing to improve speed while maintaining desirable plant stands. Based on the 2023 results, the seeding configuration was adjusted in 2024 and 2025 to increase operating speed and better reflect typical onion production practices. Onions were planted in four rows per bed using clusters of three

Figure 2. Kevin Vander Kooi with the University of Guelph came up with the idea and design for 3D-printed seeding discs to seed in clusters of three. The discs were designed and printed by Geoff Farintosh with the University of Guelph.

seeds spaced 9.5 cm apart within the row, using a 3D-printed disc designed for this spacing (Fig.2). The operating speed could increase to 550 meters per hour. This clustered arrangement resembled the spacing for onion transplants and allowed accurate seed placement while maintaining geotagging. Plant stands achieved with this configuration of the FD20 were comparable to those from conventional tractor seeding. The FD20 is capable of performing precise in-row mechanical weeding shortly after crop emergence. The system accurately avoided onion plants while cutting or burying weeds growing between rows. Weed suppression improved when multiple cultivation passes were made and the original wire tines were replaced with steel V-shaped knives. However, weeds located directly

within the onion row were more difficult to remove without risking crop injury. Field conditions also influenced performance; uneven surfaces reduced weed control. This showed that robotic weeding is most effective when integrated with herbicide programs and supported by good field preparation. Yield comparisons across the trials were encouraging. In several seasons, onions seeded and weeded by the FD20 produced yields comparable to conventional tractor-based production. In other trials, yields from the FarmDroid-managed field was similar to conventional but slightly lower than a different robot, likely due to stand variability and field conditions rather than limitations of the FarmDroid itself. Size distribution of harvested onions was generally similar between robotic and conventional systems.

Conclusions

For growers interested in automation, the FarmDroid FD20 represents a practical entry point into robotic field operations, particularly where labor efficiency and precision weeding are priorities. Across multiple seasons, robotic seeding produced onion stands comparable to conventional planting, while GPS-guided mechanical cultivation effectively reduced between-row weed pressure. Although in-row weeds still require control and yields showed some seasonal variability, overall crop quality was high. The trials demonstrated that robotic onion production is technically feasible under commercial muck soil conditions when paired with proper calibration and good field preparation. Rather than replacing conventional practices OnionWorld.net

Ag robots

Figure 3. The FarmDroid seeds onions in a commercial field.

PRECISION VACUUM PLANTERS

Tਈਅ ਐ਌ਁ਎ਔਅ਒ ਕਓਅ਄ ਂਙ ਓਕਃਃਅਓਓਆਕ਌ ਏ਎ਉਏ਎ ਇ਒ਏਗਅ਒ਓ ਉ਎ ਔਈਅ Wਅਓਔਅ਒਎ U਎ਉਔਅ਄ Sਔਁਔਅਓ ਁ਎਄ Cਁ਎ਁ਄ਁ ਆਏ਒ ਏਖਅ਒ 25 ਙਅਁ਒ਓ 3 Modules - 24 Lines Model # AI-640-SNT Shown

Our proven accurate seed placement is why growers have continued to purchase our planters over these many years. Special inner and outer singulators removes doubles to insure placement of individual seeds. All planters are assembled and tested at our plant in Chino, California, to insure accuracy. 13477 Benson Ave. • Chino, CA 91710 Ph: 800.833.3023 • Fax: 909.548.4747 www.gearmore.com

Onion World • July/August 2026

Onion World Ad

outright, the FD20 functions best as a precision seeding and weeding tool that complements existing management strategies. Continued refinement of seeding configurations and cultivation tools is expected to further improve efficiency and consistency, supporting the growing role of robotics in commercial vegetable production. Authors’ note: Funding for this project was provided by the Fresh Vegetable Growers of Ontario, Haggerty AgRobotics Inc., the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance and Innovation Farms powered by AgExpert.

ONION

WORLD E-News

Industry news to your inbox: onionworld.net/e-news-sign-up

calendar

July 8-11

NOA Summer Convention

Martinique New York on Broadway New York www.onions-usa.org

Aug. 24

Bejo Open Days

Geneva, N.Y. www.bejo.com/magazine/events

Aug. 25

Crookham Onion Reveal 2026 Wilder, Idaho Crookham Company, (208) 459-7451

Aug. 25

Seminis Onion Experience 2026

Bayer Crop Science Research Station Payette, Idaho Richard Navarrete, (208) 317-6451 or richard.navarrete@bayer.com

Aug. 26

Malheur Experiment Station Onion Variety Day Malheur Experiment Station Ontario, Ore. Jan Jones, (541) 889-2174 or janet.jones@oregonstate.edu

Aug. 27

WSU Onion Field Day

AgriNorthwest Plymouth, Wash. Tim Waters, (509) 545-3511 or twaters@wsu.edu

BUG RUN? BUG OFF!

Nov. 18-19

Pacific Northwest Vegetable Association Conference and Trade Show Three Rivers Convention Center Kennewick, Wash. Sheri Nolan, (509) 585-5460 or www.pnva.org

QUICK KNOCKDOWN OF SELECT PESTS, INCLUDING THRIPS AND CUTWORM

WATER-SOLUBLE, FOR EASY FOLIAR APPLICATIONS. AVAIL ABLE IN DRY POWDER OR LIQUID FORMS

FOR USE ON GREEN AND DRY BULB ONIONS

Brought to you by Tessenderlo Kerley, formerly NovaSource®, your trusted supplier.

Dec. 1-4

NOA Annual Convention Omni Rancho Las Palmas Palm Springs, Calif. www.onions-usa.org

Control Thrips in Onions Call: 800-525-2803

tessenderlokerley.com

OnionWorld.net

IN THE NEWS

Redox Adds to Research Team

Redox Bio-Nutrients has welcomed formulation scientist Karthik Mani to the research team at the company’s Burley, Idaho, headquarters. His primary focus areas will be integrating bioactive components from diverse biostimulant sources and advancing their impact in modern cropping systems. Mani has a Ph.D. in chemistry and brings more than 13 years of experience in organic chemistry, biomaterials and nano-enabled formulation technologies. He joins Redox following a postdoctoral appointment at North Carolina State University.

NOA Advocacy means: • • • • • • • • •

A seat at the table in Washington Direct access to decision-makers Real progress on U.S.–Mexico water rights Advocating for onion inclusion in federal food assistance programs Trade enforcement that works Fair competition for U.S. onions Federal funding for onion research Protection of essential crop tools Holding imports to U.S. standards Members of the National Onion Association contribute to the policy work that affects their livelihood!

Join Today www.onions-usa.org/members/membership

Onion World • July/August 2026

Vive Grows Sales Team

Vive Crop Protection has hired Bret Mize as national account manager for the U.S. Mize brings experience in key account and regional sales management, along with expertise in agronomy and crop protection, having worked for companies including Gowan and Bayer Crop Science. Vive has also promoted Greg Esco to vice president of sales.

Bret Mize

SEEDWAY_Onion World_Oct2021_Layout 1 10/4/2021 2:52 PM Page 1

Your Acres. Your Livelihood. Our Priority.

Greg Esco

Ecorobotix Builds Partnerships

Ecorobotix’s ARA Ultra High Precision Sprayer is now being assembled for the U.S. market in Lyons, Kansas, by KMW. The Kansasbased manufacturer specializes in precision fabrication, engineering and assembly services for agricultural equipment manufacturers. The partnership will allow Ecorobotix to strengthen its U.S. supply chain and better adapt its technology for U.S. production regions and specialty crop growers, according to the company. Ecorobotix is also building partnerships with universities across the U.S. to better understand regional agronomic conditions and develop new crop algorithms tailored to American farming systems.

UNITED STATES UNITED STATES LancasterCalifornia & San Joaquin Valley (661) 978-5342 (661) 699-0055 DesertNew Southwest California, Mexico (661) 300-9109 (928) 446-7737 Southern California, Colorado & New Arizona Mexico (760) 791-0325 (970) 396-9728 Idaho, East Colorado Oregon, Utah & Nevada (208) 550-7733 (208) 941-1421 Idaho, Eastern Oregon, Skagit Valley, Washington Utah, Nevada, North Dakota (360) 941-7503 (208) 941-1421 Rio Grande & West Texas (208) Valley 550-7733 (956) 618-5574 Washington, Western Oregon (509) 820-9887

MEXICO MEXICO Irapuato Torreón, Coahuila +52(461) (462)117-3878 220-0453 TorreonCol. Colima, +52(461) (461)104-0134 117-3878 San Luis Potosi Chihuahua (461) 140-9452 +52 (648) 109-1597 SanChihuahua Luis Potosi (461) 171-9401 +52 (449) 196-1848 Tamaulipas Tamaulipas (461) 134-2421 +52 (461) 346-1531 Irapuato, Gto. Colima (461) 546-5792 +52 (461) 104-0134

Texas (956) 618-5574

(800) 952-7333 WWW.SEEDWAY.COM OnionWorld.net

Harvest Essentials Buyers' Guide Agri-Stor Companies • agri-stor.com Agri-Star Control Panel

Agri-Stor Companies helps growers take control of their onion storage with Gellert’s Agri-Star Control Panel. Since 1964, Agri-Stor has designed and sold thousands of Agri-Star panels for a wide range of post-harvest products. Through these years of application experience and university-based research, AgriStor Companies has developed its most user-friendly, advanced control panel yet. Features include a full-color, interactive touchscreen, easy-to-understand programming and internet capabilities with an intuitive app. Fully adaptable to growers’ onion storages, the Agri-Star panel can handle everything including curing mode, burners, humidity, refrigeration, airflow, temperature, carbon dioxide levels, heat and lights. When growers match the Agri-Star panel with Gellert’s climate control equipment, their onions are wrapped in the perfect climate, extending their life and quality.

Chinook Equipment, Inc. • chinookequipment.com

edp Electro-bagger

The newest onion bagger from edp, model EB-2218-DF, is the most accurate and highest capacity bagger built by edp Australia. This machine will accommodate most any open-mouth bag on the standard 9-inch bag holder. Most customers in the U.S. use this machine for a range of bags from 20 pounds to 50 pounds. Also available is the ability to fill cartons or crates with the optional carton-filling attachments. Speed control of both feed belts, pneumatic bag clamps, batch counters and monitoring of weight averages are among the standard features on the EB-2218-DF.

Onion World • July/August 2026

Kerian Machines • kerian.com

Kerian Speed Sizer

The Kerian Speed Sizer sorts onions by size quickly, accurately and gently. The constantly rotating rollers help the turning flaps align the onions with the rollers so that they are consistently sorted by size. The Kerian Speed Sizer is proven in use for whites, reds, golds, browns, Spanish, pearl and many other varieties of onions.

L&M Specialty Fabrication • turbotopharvester.com TT-248 Turbo Top Harvester

Turbo Top’s TT-248 is a self-propelled two-bed onion harvester. Green onions are one of Turbo Top’s specialties, allowing growers to start harvest earlier and control curing. Day or night harvest? Turbo Top is capable of both. Adverse conditions? Turbo Top can work through the toughest of conditions. The TT-248 has dual 48-inch-wide pickup elevators for a total harvest pickup width of 132 inches, allowing onions to be picked up how they are grown without windrowing to reduce damage. TT-248 is powered by a 330-HP John Deere Tier IV Final Package engine. It has infinite cab control of fan speed, primary chain speed, ground speed, load boom speed/movement, cutter bar height and front elevator depth. Its exclusive large topping area eliminates weeds and debris and allows even the greenest tops to be sorted before topping. Turbo Top comes in different models and has many options to fit growers’ needs.

OnionWorld.net

Harvest Essentials Buyers' Guide Lee Shuknecht & Sons, Inc. • shuknecht.com

SP-132 Onion Harvester

Lee Shuknecht & Sons, Inc.’s SP-132 is a self-propelled two-bed harvester that eliminates windrowing while simultaneously direct loading two beds, for a total production width of 132 inches using 47-inch chains. This low-maintenance mechanical harvester provides the highest percentage topping of green and/or dry onions of all Shuknecht’s onion harvesters while it harvests two to three tons per minute. Powered by a standard 190-hp Cummins engine, the solo operator seated in an air conditioned cab has complete control over blower speed, primary and rear elevator speeds, cutter bar speed and height and ground speed. The twobed harvester features a 4-foot high-capacity boom and easily controlled front pickup elevators with spring-assist floats. Available options include a moveable 4- or 5-foot dipper, rotating cab, stainless blower housing liners and a 240-hp engine. Digital readouts for the blower, primary chain and ground speed can be included, as well as hydraulic adjustment front elevator gauge wheels. Ground sync primary chain control, a posi-traction four-wheel-drive system and hydraulic trash chain drive can all be built into the SP-132. The company also custom manufactures pull-behind models with the same quality and topping system to accommodate smaller onion growers.

Onion World • July/August 2026

Symach • symach.nl/en

Palletizing Equipment

Symach has a long history of palletizing onions and innovating to provide customized modular designs guaranteeing a high stacking rate with maximum flexibility. From 50-pound bulk and baled bags to complex Octabins, Symach has solutions to handle all customers’ palletizing needs. Symach also offers options to stabilize the pallet at the end of the line, including wrapping and double stacking, and palletizing within the margins of the pallet to ensure ease of loading during the shipping process.

Top Air • topair-usa.com

Onion Topper Loader

The XTR continues to be Top Air’s most capable onion topper loader. Available in two- or four-bed models, the XTR combines high capacity with superior handling. Featuring a high-performance rotary cutting system, this harvester outperforms in the most challenging harvest conditions on both short- and long-day onions.

OnionWorld.net

Harvest Essentials Buyers' Guide Unisorting • unisorting.com Onion Sort 3 & Uniq Onion

Unisorting, a brand of Unitec Group, develops and manufactures lines for onion sorting that combine high efficiency in the process and preservation of product integrity during each stage. Onions Sort 3 and Uniq Onions are the latest systems, 100 percent developed in house, for external and internal quality selection of all varieties of onions. These solutions allow users to select the valuable or non-valuable characteristics of any type of onion without damaging the integrity of the product. An accurate selection of external quality and internal quality, in addition to the detection of weight, optical size and shape, offers high performance solutions for every need. The dedicated technologies, semi-automatic or fully automated, are designed to offer the best possible result and give customers a highly reliable product without internal defects.

Volm Companies • volmcompanies.com

VST30 Palletizer

The VST30 palletizer is designed to offer high stacking performance with minimal manual labor. It can reach a capacity of 22 bags per minute and will position product with the utmost accuracy. The automatic pallet in-feed ensures an automated process, which reduces labor costs. Volm Companies offers a complete selection of end-of-line palletizing solutions. Volm engineers, constructs and installs Volmstack palletizing systems and has built an impressive portfolio that includes robotic, conventional, case stacking, bin filling and plate palletizing systems.

Onion World • July/August 2026

edp.com.au edp australia pty ltd

sales@edp.com.au

edp Gantry Bin Tipper Our new Gantry Bin Tipper is purposebuilt for handling produce in plastic macrobin/tote bin, delivering a seamless, continuous tipping process into grading and packing lines. Designed with efficiency and reliability in mind, this system is fully electric, ensuring smooth, consistent operation while reducing downtime and manual handling.

LIFTERS / DIGGERS

TOPPER WINDROWERS

EFFICIENT UNDERCUTTING AND WINDROWING

TOP AND CURE ONIONS IN WINDROWS

• RIGID FRAME + FOLDING MODELS IN A WIDE RANGE OF CONFIGURATIONS

• HIGH CAPACITY • GENTLE HANDLING • STANDARD + XL MODELS

t pair I NCO R PO RAT E D

TOPPER LOADERS INDUSTRY LEADING TOPPING AND CAPACITY FOR OPERATIONS OF ALL SIZES • SUPERIOR DIRT & DEBRIS ELIMINATION • BEST IN CLASS RELIABILITY • MODELS FOR ALL GROWING CONDITIONS

INFO@TOPAIRINC.COM

+1.208.722.6936

OnionWorld.net

Making Sense of Soil

Moisture Sensors By Emily Bedwell, Extension Irrigation Technology Specialist, University of Idaho

rops have very specific water needs, and those needs change dynamically throughout the growing season as plant growth and development shift from vegetative to reproductive stages. Keeping soil moisture within an optimal range is critical for maintaining yield, quality and overall crop health. Both overwatering and underwatering can create costly challenges; excess water can increase disease pressure and nutrient leaching, while inadequate moisture can limit yield and quality. Soil moisture sensors are powerful tools for helping ensure that these changing water demands are met. By providing continuous, real-time data, soil moisture sensors offer a clear picture of moisture conditions throughout the root zone. This information can help fine-tune irrigation, avoid unnecessary applications and maintain soil moisture at levels that support crop water needs at each growth stage. New technologies can be overwhelming, especially when there are many options that each have their own pros and cons. Here is a breakdown of some common types of soil moisture sensors, how they work and what to consider before purchasing.

Comprehensive portfolio of onion seeds for all markets As a leader in the onion seeds business, we have a reputation to uphold. And we do. Thanks to 40 years of experience and the extensive expertise of our breeders, we know the world’s second most consumed vegetable inside and out. Visit nunhems.com for more information.

Onion World • July/August 2026

Soil Water Tension Sensors

Measures: Soil water tension Units: kilopascals (kPa) or centibars (cbars) (1 cbar ≈ 1 kPa) Tension-based sensors measure how strongly the soil holds onto water, which simulates how hard roots must work to extract moisture from the soil. There are two common types of tension-based sensors: true tensiometers and granular matrix sensors. Tensiometers – These are true tensiometers consisting of a water-filled tube and a porous ceramic cup. As the soil dries, water is drawn out of the instrument, creating suction measured on a gauge. Pros: • Easy to interpret • Direct measurement of plant water stress • Perform well across soil textures Cons: • Require refilling, adjusting for air bubbles • Limited reading range in very dry soils • Freeze sensitive Granular Matrix Sensors – While granular matrix sensors technically are not tensiometers, they measure the same unit: soil water tension. Instead of water inside a tube, these sensors contain a granular matrix that absorbs moisture from the soil. An electronic reader measures the electrical resistance in the matrix, which correlates with soil tension. 06-26 Onion World-7.3x4.9.v1.pdf

2026-05-25

9:25 am

Pros: • Less affected by soil texture • No maintenance (no refilling needed) • Can remain in soil year-round • Long life (5+ years) • More affordable option Cons: • Require good soil contact • Slower to respond after irrigation • Slightly less intuitive than a gauge

Capacitance Sensors

Measures: volumetric water content (VWC) or available soil moisture (ASM) Units: percent Capacitance sensors send an electrical signal into the soil. Because water conducts electricity differently than soil or air, the sensor calculates the volume of water per volume of soil. For example, a reading of 22% VWC means that 22% of the soil’s volume is water. Capacitance sensors can either be a single-depth sensor or a probe that includes several measurement points along a single shaft, providing data throughout the root zone. Pros: •Low maintenance • Multi-depth data (probes) • Show water movement after irrigation

OnionWorld.net

soil moisture sensors Cons: • Require calibration for accuracy • Readings vary by soil texture • Higher cost per sensor • Installation can be difficult • Proper installation is critical for data accuracy

Time-Domain Reflectometry (TDR) Sensors

Measures: volumetric water content (VWC) or available soil moisture (ASM) Units: percent TDR sensors send a fast electromagnetic pulse down metal rods. The “travel time” of that pulse changes depending on how much water is in the soil. This provides a highly accurate measurement of VWC. Pros: • Very accurate when calibrated • Low maintenance Cons: • Require careful installation • Most expensive type of sensor

Understanding VWC% vs. ASM%

Some sensors report soil moisture in VWC, while others report it in ASM. Understanding the difference between these two units is one of the most confusing parts of soil moisture data.

Kerian Sizer Sort Onions By Size With No Labor Costs

Volumetric Water Content (VWC%) • Physical measurement of water volume per soil volume • Does not indicate ease of plant uptake • Soils with identical VWC% but varying sand/silt/clay composition can have different irrigation needs Available Soil Moisture (ASM%) • Calculated value based on field capacity and wilting point of a specific soil texture • Represents how much water is usable by the crop • A 60% ASM reading does not equal 60% VWC Some sensors estimate ASM based on a soil type-specific conversion, but without calibration, these values are only approximations.

Where to Install Soil Moisture Sensors

So, you have decided which sensors are the best fit for you, and now you are ready to install them in your fields. The main question I hear related to soil moisture sensors is “Where do I install them?” Consider these dos and don’ts for installing sensors in your field. Do: • Install in a representative area of field • Install beyond the second tower of center pivot • Ensure proper installation (no air gaps around sensor) • Install in predominant soil type of field • Install more than one sensor if possible • Install deep enough to represent root zone Don’t: • Install on field edge • Install in a low or high elevation area in field • Forget to calibrate your capacitance sensors • Install your sensor(s) and never validate readings with field checks

How to Get Started

Fast – Up to 150,000 lb/hour Gentle – Proven for Tomatoes, Peaches, & Other

Delicate Products Accurate – 1/32-in (0.8 mm) precision Rugged – Avg. 8+ Years Before First Parts Replacement Seamless Integration – Customized To Fit Your Line Affordable – Starts <$20k

KeRIAn MAchIneS Inc. PO Box 311• Grafton, ND 58237

701-352-0480

sales@kerian.com • kerian.com 18

Onion World • July/August 2026

No matter which sensor you choose, the goal is the same: to gain better insight into what’s happening below the soil surface. Soil moisture sensors provide data to help conserve water, improve yield and quality, and reduce pest and disease risk. For assistance with selecting, purchasing or installing soil moisture sensors, contact your local irrigation dealer or crop consultant. Also, you can contact your county’s Extension educator or your state’s irrigation specialist for help evaluating the benefits of integrating soil moisture sensors into your operations. Author’s note: Emily Bedwell is an assistant professor and the Extension irrigation technology specialist at the University of Idaho in Kimberly, Idaho. She can be reached at ebedwell@uidaho.edu.

To Advertise: Dave@OnionWorld.net

Save The Date! BEJO OPEN DAYS AUGUST 24TH 8-12PM GENEVA, NY

Exploring nature never stops

BEJO ONIONS - LAYERS OF EXCELLENCE RED EAGLE

CROCKETT

HAMILTON

Long day storage variety with deep red color.

Very hard bulbs with excellent skin retention and unique dark color.

Very uniform, extremely firm, classy bulbs. Ideal for long-term storage.

IR: Foc; Pt

IR: Foc

f bejoseeds.com

f Scan to view Bejo’s latest variety listing!

OnionWorld.net

FROM THE NOA

How the NOA Works to Boost Onion Consumption Nationwide

By René Hardwick, National Onion Association Director of Public and Industry Relations

or onion growers, maintaining strong consumer demand is just as important as growing a quality crop. The National Onion Association works behind the scenes to make sure onions remain a staple on grocery shelves and dinner tables nationwide. Through recipe development and social media campaigns, the NOA helps drive consumption. But unlike many commodity groups, we do it without the benefit of a mandatory check-off program. This means our resources are limited. While other industries receive dedicated funds for marketing through mandatory assessments, the NOA relies The NOA developed this Lemon Chicken Onion Soup as a simple way to turn leftover rotisserie chicken into a fresh, comforting meal. Savory onions, bright lemon and green peas bring balance and flavor to this thymeinfused soup, which tastes like it simmered for hours but comes together in just 20 minutes. Photo by Lori Rice for the National Onion Association

Onion World • July/August 2026

Rich caramelized onions take these barbecue chicken sandwiches to the next level, adding deep savory flavor and a touch of sweetness to every bite. Made with leftover rotisserie chicken, this quick and satisfying meal is perfect for busy weeknights or an easy weekend picnic – and it’s ready in just 15 minutes. Photo by Lori Rice for the National Onion Association

on voluntary support from growers. We encourage members to contribute a voluntary assessment of one cent per hundredweight of onions, which helps fund marketing and promotional efforts. Beyond that, we host annual fundraisers – including our popular raffle and the upcoming summer auction – to generate additional revenue. Donations and participation in these events are critical to keeping our programs running and maintaining a strong presence for onions in the marketplace. Despite these limitations, the NOA continues to make a measurable impact on onion consumption. One campaign the NOA looks forward to each year is National Onion Day. After successfully securing June 27 as the official National Onion Day, the celebration has steadily gained momentum among consumers, retailers and restaurants across the country. Each year, participation grows as businesses find creative ways to spotlight onions and connect with customers.

National restaurant chains such as Outback Steakhouse have even used the occasion to drive traffic and sales through promotions like free Bloomin’ Onions. The timing also works in our favor, with National Onion Ring Day falling just five days earlier on June 22. Together, the two celebrations create a full week dedicated to one of America’s favorite ingredients – helping keep onions front and center in kitchens and restaurants nationwide. One of the most effective ways we maximize every promotional dollar is through recipe development. By creating and sharing approachable, flavorful onion recipes for home cooks, the NOA showcases the versatility, taste and nutritional value onions bring to everyday meals. From quick weeknight skillet dinners to crowd-pleasing appetizers, these recipes help keep onions top of mind for consumers and encourage repeat purchases. This summer, the NOA is unveiling 10 new recipes through a three-month

rollout designed for consumers looking for simple, practical meal ideas without sacrificing nutrition. The collection spans everything from appetizers and salads to hearty main dishes. The campaign also promotes smart batch cooking strategies, such as preparing a large batch of caramelized onions to use in multiple meals throughout the week or repurposing leftover rotisserie chicken into fresh, flavorful dishes that help families break out of the dinner rut. Social media campaigns are another critical tool. Short videos, seasonal cooking ideas, and interactive posts on platforms like Instagram, Facebook and TikTok allow the NOA to connect with diverse audiences, educate consumers about onion varieties, and showcase practical, flavorful uses. These campaigns are carefully targeted to maximize engagement without a large budget, making every post count. Every recipe and social post depends on the support of our members. The NOA may not have mandatory checkoff dollars, but with your voluntary assessments, raffle entries, auction participation and donations, we can continue to grow demand for onions and support the industry from farm to table. In a world of limited resources, your support is what keeps the NOA – and your crop – strong. The NOA’s efforts also extend beyond recipes and promotions. Throughout the year, we connect directly with consumers through giveaways, educational materials and family-focused outreach items such as kitchen utensils, coloring books, and Nature’s Ninja dolls and plushies. Just as importantly, we respond personally to consumer questions – whether someone is looking for advice on storing onions properly or trying to find sweet onions outside of Georgia. Every interaction is an opportunity to keep onions part of the conversation, encourage consumption, and support the growers and industry members who work every day to bring onions to tables across the country.

INSTANT SHADE

LOWER INCIDENCE OF SUNSCALD

DEFENDS AGAINST HEAT STRESS

THRIPS SUPPRESSION

Brought to you by your trusted supplier Tessenderlo Kerley (formerly NovaSource).

Quick Watch: Sun and Insect Protectant

Call your local distributor or reach us at (800) 525-2803. tessenderlokerley.com Always read and follow label instructions. ©2026 Tessenderlo Kerley, Inc. All rights reserved. Tessenderlo Kerley® and Surround® are registered trademarks of Tessenderlo Kerley.

OnionWorld.net

Vidalia Onion Committee

Sweet Season, Bold Partnerships By Chelsea Page, Director of Marketing and Compliance, Vidalia Onion Committee

very spring, something special happens in Southeast Georgia. The soil – naturally low in sulfur and unlike anywhere else on Earth – works its magic on one of America’s most recognized agricultural treasures: the Vidalia onion.

A Season Worth Celebrating

The April 13 pack date did not happen by accident. Each year, the Vidalia Onion Advisory Panel takes a close look at weather patterns, soil conditions and crop maturity before recommending a start date, and this year was no different. Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J. Harper gave the green light after the panel’s review, and our growers hit the ground running. For 2026, growers planted roughly 10,200 acres across the production region, a number that speaks to the confidence our farming families have in this crop and in the consumers who love it. And honestly, that confidence is wellearned. The Vidalia Onion Act of 1986 and Federal Marketing Order No. 955 did not just create legal protections for our name – they set a standard. What grows

Onion World • July/August 2026

in those 20 counties of Southeast Georgia simply cannot be grown anywhere else. That’s not marketing talk; that’s science and soil. The care our growers put into every onion – from planting through harvest – is something consumers feel when they slice into a Vidalia. It’s mild, sweet and versatile in a way that no other onion can match. That’s the foundation everything else is built on.

Two Iconic Brands, One Delicious Collaboration

If there’s one pairing that just makes sense, it’s sweet Vidalia onions and premium Certified Angus Beef. We’re thrilled to announce that the Vidalia Onion Committee has entered into a strategic partnership with the Certified Angus Beef brand, and it’s already shaping up to be something really special. “This partnership is something we’ve been dreaming about: two genuinely iconic American brands – both rooted in farming heritage and a commitment to quality – coming together to show consumers what’s possible when the best ingredients meet,” said Chelsea Page, director of marketing and compliance for the Vidalia Onion Committee. “We couldn’t be more excited about what this means for Vidalia onions.” So, what does the partnership actually look like? For starters, Vidalia onions are now an official featured ingredient at the Certified Angus Beef Culinary Center, a world-class facility that welcomes chefs, retailers and food industry partners from around the globe. Getting our onions in front of that audience, in that environment, is a big deal. When a top chef or a major grocery buyer experiences Vidalia onions as the go-to sweet onion partner for premium beef, it reinforces the brand equity we’ve spent years building. Beyond the Culinary Center, the partnership reaches consumers directly through digital promotions, collaborative recipes and sweepstakes across Certified Angus Beef’s social media channels. Let’s be real – most people decide what’s for dinner while they’re scrolling on

their phones, not while standing in the produce aisle. Getting Vidalia onions into that digital moment, alongside a brand that millions of consumers already trust, is exactly the kind of marketing that moves the needle. And then there’s the storytelling piece, which honestly might be our favorite part. Both brands have deep roots in multigenerational farming families. Together, we’re producing a special YouTube episode of Bryan’s Burger World that will spotlight the Vidalia harvest story and the farm families behind it. In a world full of content noise, real stories about real people and real food connect in a way that polished ads just can’t. We’re excited to share ours.

Why It Matters for Growers

Here’s the bottom line for our grower community: marketing like this creates demand for the 10,200 acres you plant every year. Every recipe video, every sweepstakes, every chef who discovers Vidalia onions at the Culinary Center – that’s a future customer at the grocery store. We like to say that marketing is the harvest that happens after the harvest. Our availability window runs from April through early September, and our goal is to make sure consumers are seeking out Vidalia onions from the first day they hit shelves to the last bag standing. The Certified Angus Beef partnership fits perfectly into grilling season – which is, conveniently, our season window. That’s not a coincidence; that’s smart alignment.

Looking Ahead

We’re proud of where the Vidalia brand stands as we head into the 2026 season. Our growers are planting with confidence, and our new partnership with Certified Angus Beef is opening doors we’ve never walked through before. From the red clay fields of Southeast Georgia to screens and shelves across America, it’s a good time to be a Vidalia onion. The Vidalia onion is a Georgia institution and an American original. Our job is to make sure the rest of the world never forgets it.

OnionWorld.net

DON’T LET NEMATODES RUIN YOUR SEASON BEFORE IT STARTS. TELONE™ II by Teleos soil fumigant is the world's best defense against destructive plant parasitic nematodes, including stubby-root, root-knot, lesion, stem & bulb, as well as pesky wire worms. Applying TELONE™ before planting supports healthier plants, higher yields, and improved quality. A custom blend of TELONE™ (to combat nematodes) and chloropicrin (to target soil borne diseases such as pink root) is an effective one-two punch for your onion needs. REMEMBER, THERE'S NO COMING BACK FROM A POOR START!

Contact your Teleos Ag Solutions TELONE™ Specialist for more information.

www.TeleosAg.com

TELONE™ and Teleos Ag Solutions™ are registered trademarks of Teleos Ag Solutions, Inc. TELONE™ by Teleos is a federally Restricted Use Pesticide. Always read and follow label directions.